The proportion of the U.S. population that is minority will continue to rise in the first half of the 21st century.

According to the latest population projections, minorities (Asians/Pacific Islanders, blacks, Hispanics, and American Indians/Alaskan Natives) are expected to be more than half (52 percent) of the resident college-age (18–24 years old) population of the United States by 2050, up from 34 percent in 1999.

By 2050, whites would constitute 48 percent of the U.S. population 18–24 years old, down from 66 percent in 1999.

The greatest growth among minority groups is projected for Hispanics and Asians/Pacific Islanders, reflecting immigration trends.

Relatively little growth is projected for college-age blacks and American Indians/Alaskan Natives; these populations would remain 14 and 0.9 percent, respectively, of all U.S. 18–24-year-olds in 2050.